Mr. David Byrne:

On the question regarding engagement, initially that paper was, in essence, theoretical. There are other outcomes from my PhD research that I hope will lead to engagement. The purpose of that first paper was, hopefully, to open a discourse regarding the question of single sex versus co-education. I am very much open to engagement with the Department of Education, the Teaching Council, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, or anybody that is in any way involved in the decision-making process in that regard.

On the question regarding the delivery of RSE, quite a bit of research indicates the best method to deliver RSE is to be active and proactive. Some of the recommendations that come from teachers, specifically, are the likes of role playing, music video assignments, video assignments, re-enactments and those kind of things. Importantly, the structure of our classrooms needs to be considered. A round table is the predominant structure that seems to be proposed as most conducive but, again, the point made by Ms Neville about free classes is a pertinent one. It is very consistent in the literature that RSE is being avoided. There is a major issue with teachers in respect of comfort in delivering RSE. Again, it needs to begin with training. Teachers need to be trained in how to deliver RSE in a practical and proactive manner.